Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix plus eggs and oil as indicated on package
- ½ cup butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups confectioner's sugar
- 36 mini pretzel twists
- 18 rolo candies
- 18 red m&m candies
- 36 candy eyes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cupcake mix box (typically 350° F). Line a muffin tin with liners and prepare the cake batter as directed. Fill each liner about two-thirds full and bake for the recommended time, generally 18-20 minutes. After baking, let the cupcakes cool on a rack for at least an hour before frosting.
- Prepare the chocolate frosting by mixing softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, then add cocoa powder and mix again. Gradually add confectioner's sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth.
- Choose a piping tip and attach it to a piping bag. Fill the bag with the frosting, twisting the top to secure it. Pipe frosting in a circular pattern on each cupcake.
- Unwrap the rolo candies and add a small dollop of frosting on each. Place a red m&m atop each rolo to secure it. Add two candy eyes to the center of each cupcake and gently press the rolo into the frosting where you want the reindeer's nose. Insert the mini pretzel twists into the top of each cupcake for the antlers.
- Chill the decorated cupcakes in the fridge to allow the frosting to set. Serve them within a few hours or store for up to two days for the best flavor.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
For best results, ensure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
You can substitute different candies for decorations if desired, allowing for creativity with toppings.
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg